Footscray’s Asylum Seeker Resource (ASRC) is calling on the inner-west community to give generously at its Festive Food Drive on Sunday 7 December.
The one-day food drive is being held at the rear of the ASRC’s Footscray headquarters, with donations of non-perishable food and personal care being accepted to support asylum seekers.
The ASRC claims more than 1200 asylum seekers and refugees with no access to income support or Medicare, currently rely on its foodbank service each month.
ASRC foodbank team leader Kate Quin said the ongoing cost-of living crisis hit asylum seekers particular hard and makes food drives like this weekend’s all the more vital.
“Cost-of-living pressures have hit everyone, and we’re really feeling it in our donation levels this year,” Ms Quin said.
We’re asking the community to rally together because even one bag of pantry staples can make a world of difference for families who have nowhere else to turn.”
Among the ASRC foodbank’s most needed items are tuna in oil (any size), coconut milk or cream, spreads such as honey, peanut butter and jam and sweet and savoury biscuits.
There is also a shortage of tinned vegetables such as peas, carrots, corn and tomatoes, instant coffee and tea bags, vegetable or olive oil, dried and tinned legumes and dried fruit and nuts.
Personal care items needed for donation include toothpaste and toothbrushes, razors, deodorants and shampoo.
Those who can’t make it on the day can still contribute by donating via Coles online or by encouraging others to donate by spreading the word in workplaces, schools or local community groups.
“We’re really calling on our community to come together on Sunday,” Ms Quin said.
“This is a moment where community solidarity matters. This food drive is our chance to come together and restock the shelves so people seeking asylum can get through the festive season with dignity.”
The Festive Food Drive is held at the rear of ASRC Footscray, opposite 46 Albert Street, from 10am – 2pm.
For more information and to view the full list of items, visit: https://asrc.org.au/festive-food-drive
To donate online, visit:https://asrc.org.au/festive-food-drive
